MAIDENS beach is due to be cleaned as part of the 'adopt a beach' programme to help protect coastlines across Scotland.

The South Ayrshire Coastline is just one of 11 beaches in Scotland to benefit from the scheme which is being run by Scottish Water.

Staff will team up with the Marine Conservation Society to give employees the length and breadth of the country a chance to play a part in improving Scotland’s beaches and coastal environment.

Beach clean events support the Keep the Cycle Running campaign which aims to remind customers about the potential impact of flushing inappropriate items like wipes, and help make people stop and think about their actions to help prevent non-flushables being found on beaches.

Scott Fraser, Campaign Manager at Scottish Water, said: “It’s brilliant to see so many of the Scottish Water team who are keen to get involved and adopt a stretch of the Scottish coast that they hold dear.

"It fits in nicely with our Keep the Cycle Running campaign messages, in which we are looking to build on the positive impact we have already seen from our customers responding to our campaign advice on how to reduce blockages.

"In some circumstances those blockages can affect Scotland’s beaches and coastal environment. We at Scottish Water are determined to do all we can to protect and enhance Scotland’s natural environment."

Locals can also volunteer in the scheme to keep Maidens beach clean which is part of a nationwide campaign which aims to address what is flushed down toilets or poured down kitchen sinks.

This can create blockages in drains and sewers, and can also affect the cleanliness of the beach. To learn more and find out how you can help visit www.scottishwater.co.uk/cycle.